Sam Hoskins twice fired Town into the lead, finishing off Danny Hylton’s fine work to open the scoring before converting from the spot, but Colchester hit back through Freddie Sears and Noah Chilvers. However, Haynes came off the bench and arrived right on cue to score an 89th-minute winner. Who caught the eye on opening day and who looked rusty? Find out with our player ratings from Sixfields...
9. Sam Hoskins
Two goals and an assist, what more can you ask for to kick-off the new season? A couple of crisp and precise finishes twice put Cobblers ahead and then he did superbly to set up the winner... 9 CHRON STAR MAN Photo: Pete Norton
10. Louis Appéré
Very frustrating afternoon. Nothing came off for him and he just couldn't get involved. Doesn't quite look up to full speed compared to some of his team-mates... 6 Photo: Pete Norton
11. Danny Hylton
Only needed 26 minutes to show his class. So many clever, silky touches. Wonderful play to set up the opening goal and an absolute pain for Colchester's defence from the first whistle to the last. Cobblers just need to get him operating closer - and ideally in - the opposition's penalty box more... 8 Photo: Pete Norton
12. Ryan Haynes
A dream way to start his Cobblers career. Wasn't on his heels when Hoskins put in the cross like many players might have been. Busted a gut to get in there and he was rewarded... 7 Photo: Pete Norton